About this Event
Join us on Wednesday, August 20 at 7 pm as we welcome culture writer and critic Tre Johnson for a discussion of his new book, ! Books are available for purchase with ticket or at the event (signing afterwards), and Tre will be joined in conversation by L'Oreal Thompson Payton.
A powerful read redefining the meaning of genius while illuminating the ways in which Black Americans have found various ways to thrive despite insurmountable obstacles.Black genius sits at the heart of the American story. In his probing essay collection, Black Genius, cultural critic Tre Johnson examines how Black American culture has, against all odds, been the lifeblood of American ingenuity. At times using his own personal and professional stories, Johnson surveys Black cities, communities, and schools with an ever-watchful eye of what transpires around Black mobility.With a passion for complex storytelling and pulling from both pop culture and American history, Johnson weaves past and present making his case for the genius of innovation. As he examined his findings, Johnson couldn’t help but wonder about the brilliance of the every day. Specifically, the creativity of the 90’s graffiti-style airbrush tee, his aunties packed weekend bus trips to Atlantic city, and the razor-tongued, socially-sharp, profanity-laced monologues of comedian Dick Gregory.Again and again, he asks us to ponder—are these not obvious examples of genius?Chatty yet profound, Black Genius subverts expectations from the very first page with a blend of reportage, historical data, and pop culture as Johnson dives into his own family history seeking big answers to complex questions. Johnson’s signature wit and curiosity turns history into an amusing sequence of events.
Tre Johnson was born in Trenton, NJ and now finds himself in Philadelphia, where he writes with a focus on race, culture and politics. His work has appeared in The Washington Post, Rolling Stone, Vox, The New York Times, Slate, Vanity Fair, The Grio, and other outlets. He has appeared to provide media commentary on CNN Tonight with Don Lemon; CBS Morning Show; PBS NewsHour, NPR’s Morning Edition, and other programs. In addition to writing, Tre is a career educator, beginning working both inside and outside in the classroom as a teacher and eventually as a leader in the sector.
L'Oreal Thompson Payton is a bestselling author, award-winning journalist, and keynote speaker. Her work has appeared in publications such as Essence, Fortune, SELF, and Well + Good, and she is the author of Stop Waiting for Perfect: Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Into Your Power. She is the founder of LT in the City Media, a multimedia platform for ambitious millenial women and anyone looking to make their mark.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Call & Response Books, 1390 East Hyde Park Boulevard, Chicago, United States
USD 0.00 to USD 37.15
